Zhao Yi (Chao I) 1727-1814

Qing-dynasty poet and historian. A native of Jiangsu, Zhao Yi was the son of a private tutor and took over this position when his father died. He passed the jinshi examination in 1761 and was appointed to a succession of official posts. As a historian, he wrote a work on historiographical method entitled Nianer shi zhaji completed in 1796. He was also one of the most popular poets of his day, writing in the shi form. He also wrote a work of literary criticism—Oubei shihua [Chao Yi's talks on poetry]—which includes essays on major writers and general comments on the function of poetry.

         close